Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) board president Scott Newman-Bale has stepped down from his position.

In a letter to fellow trustees and TCAPS superintendent Dr. John VanWagoner, Newman-Bale said "increasing family and professional commitments require me to step away from this important role." He called serving on the board "the greatest privilege of my public life." When he first ran, he said he had several goals including "to help reduce superintendent turnover, navigate significant legal disputes, stabilize the district's budget and reserve funds, restore public trust, and establish a long-term strategic plan that would provide direction for the future of TCAPS."

Though there is "always more work to be done, I believe we have made dramatic progress on each of these goals," Newman-Bale wrote. "Today, the district is on a stronger foundation and is well positioned for continued success."

Newman-Bale encouraged his fellow trustees to "remain steadfast in their comittment to academic excellence while continuing to exercise sound fiscal stewardship." He said he hoped to see "a new generation of community members step forward to serve on the board." Newman-Bale concluded: "I leave this role with gratitude, optimism, and confidence that TCAPS will continue to build on the progress we have made together."

Newman-Bale has been on the board for nearly six years. Vice President Erica Moon Mohr will now become board president. Trustees will address the board vacancy at their next meeting.